Description

The mouth has long been a recurring symbol in my artwork and I’m far from finished exploring it. If the eyes are the gateway to the soul, then the mouth is the expressive interface for the mind, body and the soul – a vessel that not only releases flavours and textures but also conveys ideas, wrapping the tongue around sophisticated languages and, of course, serving as the audacious opening for the art of kissing.

Simplified cartoon lips didn’t capture what I wanted. They needed to look real. I carefully observed the folds and creases of my own lips to create the lifelike quality of these red, glossy lips. This mouth sculpture, though closed and silent, holds a sense of containment and calm restraint.

The hollow mouth balances delicately atop three empty geometric forms. The protruding limbs are inspired by watching the synchronised swimmers from the last Olympic Games.

I used to be a synchronised swimmer in my teens. I never felt particularly graceful but I loved being in the water and could hold my breath for what felt like ages.

The mouth symbolises so much. This mouth sculpture is both surreal and playful and though it’s keeping quiet (listening almost), it speaks volumes. What does it say to you?